Asthma is a long-term disease that affects the lungs or the airways. Asthma attacks are characterized by wheezing, difficulty breathing, coughing and chest tightness. The disease can be managed with a variety of medications that fall into two main categories. One category of asthma medicine is used for quick relief from symptoms, while the other category is used for long-term control of asthma or to prevent asthma attacks. There are different asthma medicines under these two broad categories.
Inhaled Corticosteroids
Inhaled corticosteroids are used to prevent asthma attacks. They are medications that are taken on a long-term basis. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute states that inhaled corticosteroids are the most effective long-term asthma medications because they block allergic reactions and inhibit inflammation and swelling, which can all lead to asthma attacks. A common side effect of inhaled corticosteroid is a yeast infection called oral candidiasis or thrush. Advair, Azmacort and Pulmicort are examples of inhaled corticosteroids taken for asthma.
Long-Acting Beta-2 Agonists
Airway constriction is a symptom of asthma. Long-acting beta-2 agonists open up constricted airways and reduce asthma related inflammation. These medications can be used in combination with inhaled corticosteroids to improve long-term control of asthma. The Mayo Clinic says that long-acting beta-2 agonists should not be taken alone for asthma treatment. Serevent and Foradil are examples of long-acting beta-2 agonists.
Leukotriene Modifiers
Leukotrienes are chemicals released by the body that cause asthma symptoms. Leukotriene modifiers are asthma medications that inhibit or lower the production of leukotrienes. They are used for long-term control of asthma and to prevent the symptoms of asthma attacks. Examples of leukotriene modifiers taken for asthma are Singulair and Zyflo. According to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology, leukotriene modifiers are generally safe.
Inhaled Anticholinergics
Inhaled anticholinergics are used for quick relief from asthma symptoms. Atrovent is an anticholinergic drug that is used to treat asthma. These drugs open up constricted airways.
Short-Acting Beta-2 Agonists
Short-acting beta-2 agonists are quick relief asthma medications that cause relaxation of smooth muscles in the airways. This leads to opening up of constricted airways. Short-acting beta-2 agonists are also taken by asthmatic patients before exercising to prevent exercise induced asthma. They are available as inhalers and should not be taken on a regular basis. Some short-acting beta-2 agonists that are taken for asthma include albuterol, levalbuterol and pirbuterol.
References
- American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology: What is asthma?
- Mayo Clinic: Asthma medications: Know your options
- Medlineplus: Asthma - Control Drugs
- "The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Guide to Asthma: How to Help Your Child Live a Healthier Life"; Julian Lewis Allen, Tyra Bryant-Stephens, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Sheila Buff, Martha M. Jablow; 2004.
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute: How Is Asthma Treated and Controlled?
